"Gone Fishing" Series - August 2019

 Sometimes we just want to get away from it all: an escape from the daily grind, a vacation in a fascinating location, a remote fishing trip.  But God has other plans for us. 

In August, Pastor Brian will be leading a 4-week series called “Gone Fishing.”  This series explores the story of Jonah and God’s persistent grace.

Jonah is a reluctant prophet.  He wants to go in the opposite direction God wants him to go.  Harboring feelings of resentment, Jonah does not want to speak to his enemies on behalf of a merciful God.  He prefers a God of judgment and just desserts.  Jonah knows that God is “a merciful and compassionate God, very patient, full of faithful love, and willing not to destroy” (Jonah 4:2b, CEB). 

The story of Jonah’s attempted escape from God reminds us that no matter how hard we may try, we cannot run from God’s presence.  We learn how God confronts our stubbornness and gives us another chance.  God cares about people and knows they can change, which is why God doesn’t give up on us and the tasks given to us.  But Jonah’s story pushes the envelope and makes us ask:  How far does God’s mercy extend?  Will it change us?

August 4

The Runaway

Jonah 1:1-16

August 11

The Fish

Jonah 1:17—2:10

August 18

The City

Jonah 3:1-10

August 25
The Questions
Jonah 4:1-11